P40 Warhawk/Kittyhawk

In production from 1939 to 1944 this American low/medium level fighter had excellent manoeuvrability, but by 1942 it was outpaced by in particular the latest German fighters. But it was still active in the Pacific up to 1945 and considered an excellent aircraft by its pilots. In the European theatre it proved itself when adopted by the RAF in the Desert War and proved itself both in air combat and ground attack roles. The aircraft was also supplied to Chinese Nationalist forces, and was the signature aircraft of the US 'Flying Tigers' in this aspect of the conflict. Under the Lend Lease System the aircraft was supplied to Russia and was still holding its own until 1943, when it was then considered effectively redundant. Over 2500 of all types were built. Model price: £7.50